Sanibel Police Department’s Lieutenant Grace Towler addresses Sanibel Captiva Lions Club on crime prevention
The Sanibel Captiva Lions Club hosted Sanibel Police Department’s Lieutenant Grace Towler as a guest speaker at the regular dinner meeting Wednesday, April 18, at the Sanibel Community House. Towler addressed personal safety even though Sanibel experiences minimal crime.
“We are a safe city,” said Towler. “Recent reports show crime is down 31 percent, but our residents are still at risk for various crimes.”
Lions heard about defending against identity theft and scams, as well as the importance of locking doors. Towler noted that most crimes on the island are from criminals finding unlocked doors on houses and vehicles. She also stressed the importance of recording serial numbers and storing valuables in uncommon places.
The Sanibel Police Department also provides Dark House checks if occupants will be gone for two weeks or more – just call 239-472-3111. Although, a maintained alarm system and properly placed exterior lights can deter criminals.
“We are 100 percent responsive,” said Towler, who has been with SPD for 11 years and giving Crime Prevention presentations for the past six years. “I don’t want anyone on Sanibel to be a victim. It’s why I do this.”
Towler received her master’s degree in criminal justice from Florida Gulf Coast University and has been named Lee County Bar Officer of the Year in 2012 and SPD Officer of the Year in 2016. She is a new resident of Sanibel and says she “absolutely love working and living here.”
“We appreciate Lt. Towler sharing her crime prevention presentation and keeping us safe,” said Lion President Tom Nachazel.
The Sanibel Captiva Lions meet the first and third Wednesday of each month at the Sanibel Community House. Visiting Lions are welcome. To learn more about becoming a Lion, contact Membership Chairman Lion Steve Schulz at [email protected] 239-233-6261 or visit sanibelcaptivalions.org.